Understanding Fashion Journalism with Meher Castelino

When we say Fashion Journalism- it practically means all published information on fashion including critique, reporting and writing. We at Whistling Woods Neeta Lulla School of Fashion believe in cultivating this stream of Journalism among aspiring students of fashion through guidance of the best in the industry. Meher Castelino, the first ever Miss India (1964), fashion journalist, mentor and adviser with the our fashion school, shared her experience and insight on Fashion Journalism.

What is the significance of Fashion Journalism?

Fashion Journalism educates people about what is happening in the world of fashion- the fabrics, the trends, the innovations, the business of fashion. It practically works as an avenue to the fashion industry for aspirants, patrons and all those who believe in the art.

How is the concept of Fashion Journalism different today?

Fashion Journalism in the digital age is more liberal and widespread today, with faster communication and instant information shared with the consumers. However, I must also say that fashion journalism is also a little irresponsible today, with more freedom of speech. Anyone who can write writes about fashion without having in depth knowledge of the subject. So if you want to use the power of journalism in fashion, you need to do so positively.

What does it take to become a fashion journalist? Is a formal education necessary?

As I mentioned, to be able to write about fashion, you need to be well versed with the subject. You have to be a designer first, be educated enough about the fashion industry and then become a Fashion Journalist. You must know the difference between a ‘placket’ and a ‘pocket’ before you can even talk about fashion.

To successfully achieve the same, you need to have a formal education. You cannot write a sentence in English if you have not studied the alphabets. Similarly, a fashion degree/course helps you understand the language first so you can converse in the same in future.

What is the perception of ‘fashion’ among the young designers of India?

The younger generation perceives the fashion industry as full of glamour and glitz, gorgeous clothes, meeting beautiful people and of course profitable businesses. But what people miss is that is a lot of hard work, long term commitments that require undying passion and calls for a lot of stressful moments. The true role of a Fashion Journalist is to bring out the real essence of the industry to the people.